I’m getting sappy. Yes, I picked some ripe pine cones from our ancient white pine tree that creaks and sways over our country lodge, leaving my fingers sticky with the fragrant essence of winter. But I’m also sappy over the whole season that is sitting right in front of me. Growing up with traditions of …

There’s really nothing quite as out of this world fantastic as waking up to read an email like that. And before coffee, even. Of course, the first thing I had to do was think: “Man-o-man, what a trip! Are you kidding me?” And then, “I need coffee!” The next thing to do? Send a group text …